Multifunction display-based user interface for devices

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides a multifunctional input device. The input device includes a functional mode which defines the mode of operation of the input device. Each functional mode includes one or more domain levels with each domain level containing one or more domain-level values. Each domain level-value within each functional mode is assigned to one of a plurality of programmable input keys. The domain-level value assigned to each programmable input key controls the function of that programmable input key within a given functionality and domain level. The present invention also includes a display to indicate the domain-level value associated with each of the programmable input keys within a given functionality.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 60/323,680, filed Sep. 20, 2001 the contents of whichare incorporated by herein by reference, including any referencestherein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to input devices, and moreparticularly, the invention relates to an improved design of a universalkeyboard having one or more functionalities.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Inputs for electronic devices (e.g., personal computers, lap-topcomputers, PDAs, cellular telephones, etc.) are routinely used every dayby millions of people. The most common input device is a keyboard. Thekeyboard most commonly used today is the QWERTY keyboard. The name ofthe QWERTY keyboard is derived from the first six alphabeticalcharacters on the left side of the first row of letters on the keyboard.

The QWERTY keyboard was developed in the late 1860's for the firstmechanical typewriter and was subsequently patented by ChristopherSholes in 1878. Due to the mechanical complexity of first typewriters,the keyboard was intentionally designed to prevent the user from rapidlypressing consecutive keys, as this would jam the machine. As such, thearrangement of the keys on the QWERTY keyboard resulted from anaccommodation to the mechanical nature of the first typewriters and notfrom an effort to ensure the efficient transfer of information by thekeyboard user.

The QWERTY keyboard has been used as an input means since thedevelopment of the very first electronic devices. However, with thedevelopment of smaller, portable electronic devices, use of the QWERTYkeyboard with these devices has certain drawbacks. As electronic deviceshave become smaller through advances in integrated circuitry, thetraditional QWERTY keyboard is simply too large for many of the smallerelectronic devices as the keyboard must be large enough to accommodateboth hands of the user. Moreover, due the large size of the traditionalkeyboard, it is not sufficiently portable for use in conjunction withmany of these electronic devices. Previous attempts to overcome thisshort coming of the keyboard have included the use of foldable keyboardsas shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,174,097 and the use of keyboards that allowfor the direct connection of the electronic device to a full-sizeportable QWERTY keyboard as shown in U.S. Pat. No, 6,108,200. However,neither of these approaches reduces the area required for the use of thekeyboard.

The miniaturization of many electronic devices has allowed them to bedesigned such that they can be operated with only a single hand of theuser or has made their use incompatible with a full-sized QWERTYkeyboard. Because the QWERTY keyboard was developed for two-handed usewith the original typewriter, it can not be readily adapted forefficient use by only a single hand, or one or both thumbs when used inconjunction with many electronic devices. Moreover, the size of thestandard QWERTY keyboard, which can have in excess of 100 keys, oftenlimits its versatility and utility as an input device. Prior attempts tocircumvent those drawbacks of the QWERTY keyboard have included the useof a stylus in conjunction with a touch-screen display or other pressuresensitive surface for data entry. However, stylus-based methods of dataentry are typically much slower for entering data, more difficult forusers to learn, and have a higher error rate than keyboard-based dataentry methods.

An additional drawback to the QWERTY keyboard is that it was designed toaccommodate the mechanical components of the first typewriters, as such,the layout of its keys does not facilitate the rapid input of data fromthe keyboard. Previous attempts to increase the speed and efficiency ofdata input into an electronic device have included the development anduse of voice-recognition software. However, the error rate typicallyassociated with this type of software has thus far prevented itslarge-scale use as an effective input device.

Another drawback to the traditional QWERTY keyboard is that it hastypically only had a single functionality, namely alphanumeric input.However, with the decrease in size of many of electronic devices,additional functions are required from a smaller keyboard that currentkeyboards cannot accommodate.

Previous attempts to overcome shortcomings of the QWERTY keyboard haveincluded the use of alternative keyboards, such as the standard 12-keyarrangement found on most telephone and cellular phones. A drawback ofusing the standard telephone as a data-input device is the slow rate ofinput due to use of only a single finger or thumb to activate the keys.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a multifunctional input device. The inputdevice includes a functional mode which defines the mode of operation ofthe input device. Each functional mode includes one or more domainlevels with each domain level containing one or more domain-levelvalues. Each domain level-value within each functional mode is assignedto one of a plurality of programmable input keys. The domain-level valueassigned to each input key controls the function of that input keywithin a given functionality and domain level. The present inventionalso includes a display to indicate the domain-level value associatedwith each of the programmable input keys within a given functionality.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top isometric view of the universal keyboard as viewed fromthe bottom right-hand corner of the keyboard;

FIG. 2 is a top isometric view of the universal keyboard as viewed fromthe top left-hand corner of the keyboard;

FIG. 3 is a bottom end view of the keyboard;

FIG. 4 is a top end view of the keyboard;

FIG. 5 a is a top view of the keyboard illustrating the keyboardoperating in alphanumeric functionality with the domain-level valuesassigned to each input key in the “A-L” domain level;

FIG. 5 b is a top view of the keyboard illustrating the keyboardoperating in alphanumeric functionality with the domain-level valuesassigned to each input key in the “M-X” domain level;

FIG. 5 c is a top view of the keyboard illustrating the keyboardoperating in alphanumeric functionality with the domain-level valuesassigned to each input key in the “Y-Z/0-9” domain level;

FIG. 5 d is a top view of the keyboard illustrating the keyboardoperating in alphanumeric functionality with the domain-level valuesassigned to each input key in the “PUNCT” domain level;

FIG. 5 e is a top view of the keyboard illustrating the keyboardoperating in alphanumeric functionality with the domain-level valuesassigned to each input key in the “SYM” domain level;

FIG. 5 f is a top view of the keyboard illustrating the keyboardoperating in alphanumeric functionality with the domain-level valuesassigned to each input key in the “WORDS” domain level;

FIG. 6 is a top view of the keyboard showing additional keyboardfunctionalities;

FIG. 7 is a top isometric view of an alternative embodiment of theuniversal keyboard as viewed from the bottom right-hand corner of thekeyboard;

FIG. 8 is a top isometric view of an embodiment of the universalkeyboard as viewed from the top left-hand corner of the keyboard;

FIG. 9 is a bottom-end view of the keyboard shown in FIGS. 7 and 8;

FIG. 10 is a top-end view of the keyboard shown in FIGS. 7 and 8;

FIG. 11 is a top view of the embodiment of the keyboard shown in FIGS. 7and 8;

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a wireless connection between theuniversal keyboard and a computer connected to a PSTN;

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a wire connection between acomputer and the universal keyboard connected to a PSTN;

FIG. 14 is schematic diagram showing the universal keyboard connected toa variety of devices through an I/O Port Bar.

FIG. 15 is a top isometric view of the universal keyboard illustratingthe use of an additional unit for two-handed operation of the keyboard.

FIG. 16 is a top isometric view of the universal keyboard integral witha cellular telephone.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Generally, the present invention relates to an input device. The inputdevice has a first functional mode which defines the operation of thedevice as well as one or more domain levels within each functionalitywith each domain level containing domain-level values. Each domain levelvalue is assigned to one of a plurality of programmable input keys. Thepresent invention also includes a display to indicate the domain-levelvalue associated with each input key. Although described in the contextof a portable universal keyboard, it should be understood that theinvention is not limited to such applications. The invention may be usedin conjunction with other input applications or devices which use avariety of technologies, in lieu at or in addition to, that which isdescribed herein. For example, the invention described herein may beused as an integral part of another device such as the controls of anautomobile, an airplane (arm rest, seat back or cockpit), a lap-topcomputer (replacing the current QWERTY-style keyboard), PDA (personaldigital assistant), a cell phone (replacing the current standard keypad) or a household device such as a refrigerator or television set.

FIG. 1 is a top isometric view of the universal keyboard 1. FIG. 1illustrates functional-mode controls 10 for selecting the functionalmode of operation of the keyboard 1. The functional mode of operation ofthe keyboard 1 is the overall operation of the keyboard and anyperipheral attachments to which the keyboard is serving as an inputdevice. For example, the functional mode of operation is selected, byway of example, from the group consisting of: an English alphanumerickeyboard, a non-English alphanumeric keyboard, telephone, calculator,card reader, text editing, internet navigation, an application-specificmode associated with the use of a particular software application and amode associated with the control of an electronic device. Additionally,in embodiments of the invention, the keyboard 1 operates concurrently inmore than one functional mode of operation. For example, the keyboardmay be concurrently in both the E-mail and Alphanumeric functionalitiesto facilitate drafting an e-mail message. Other exemplary combinationsof multiple simultaneous functional modes of operation includeEdit/E-mail, Edit/Alphanumeric, Tele/www, Tele/Alpha, orE-mail/Tele/www.

Also located on the keyboard 1 are domain-level controls 20 forselecting the desired domain level. Within each functional mode ofoperation of the keyboard is one or more domain levels. Each domainlevel contains one or more domain-level values. Each domain-level valueis associated with an input key. The association of domain-level valuesto each input key 30 allows for the transmission of a signal uponactuating the particular input key 30. The creation of a signalgenerated by the actuation of an input key 30 allows for thetransmission of the character, function, command, or data which appearsin the displays 32. The association between a domain-level value and aparticular input key 30 can be predetermined by the operation of thesoftware associated with each functional mode or assigned by the user ofthe keyboard. Each domain-level value is assigned to an input key 30 forselection by the keyboard user. For example, if the keyboard isoperating in the alphanumeric functionality and in the “A-L” domainlevel, then the domain-level value associated with the letter “A” willbe assigned to the first programmable input key 30 on the left-hand sideof the top row as shown in FIG. 5 a.

Associated with each functional-mode control 10 is a functional-modescreen 12. The functional-mode screen 12 indicates which functionalmodes are activated upon actuating the functional-mode control 10associated with each screen 12. In a similar manner, each domain-levelcontrol 20 has an associated domain-level screen 22 which indicates thecontents of the domain level when the domain-level control 20 isactuated. Although the attached figures illustrate separatefunctional-mode screens 12 and domain-level screens 22 for eachfunctional-mode control 10 or domain-level control 20, respectively,this is merely exemplary. The present invention also includes the use ofmore or fewer screens than shown in the attached figures.

Located on the keyboard 1 is a set of functionality scrolling controls(e.g., buttons) 26 a and 26 b for systematic display of the availablefunctionalities that can be selected by the user of the keyboard 1.Actuating functionality scrolling control 26 a, the list of keyboardfunctionalities scrolls such that alternative functionalities aredisplayed on the functional-mode screens 12 and can be selected byactuating the appropriate functional-mode control 10. For example, withfunctionalities 1-4 displayed in the functional-mode screens 12 of FIG.1, actuating the functionality scrolling control 26 a will then displayfunctionalities 5-8. With functionalities 5-8 displayed, pressing thefunctionality scrolling control 26 b allows functionalities 1-4 to beavailable for selection by the user. Although illustrated to scroll fromfunctionalities 1-4 to functionalities 5-8, the present invention alsoincludes scrolling capabilities such that any number alternativefunctionalities will appear on the functional mode screens 12 uponactuating the scrolling controls 26 a and 26 b.

Also located on the keyboard 1 is a set of domain scrolling controls 28a and 28 b for selecting the desired domain level within a selecteddevice functionality. Actuating domain scrolling control 26 a displaysadditional levels available within a functionality on the domain-levelscreens 22. For example, with domain levels 1-4 displayed on thedomain-level screens 22 for a given functionality, actuating domainscrolling control 28 a displays additional domain levels for selectionby the user. Similarly, with the new domain levels displayed, actuatingthe domain scrolling control 28 b, the previously displayed domainlevels will be displayed for selection by the user. Activating a domainscrolling controls 28 a or 28 b will change any number of domain levelsassigned to the domain-level controls 20.

Programmable input keys 30 comprise a keypad for transmitting a signalassociated with each domain-level value associated with a particularinput key 30. Associated with each input key 30 is a display 32. Thedisplays provide a visual indication of the current domain-level valueassociated with each input key 30 as well as alternative domain-levelvalues available for that input key 30 within a selected functionality.Although the attached figures illustrate the use of displays 32 witheach programmable input key 30, this is merely exemplary. The presentinvention also includes the use of programmable input keys 30 with fewerdisplays than are illustrated in the attached figures.

The functional-mode screens 12, domain-level screens 22 and the displays32 can be made from methods for displaying data such as light-emittingdiodes (LED), liquid-crystal display (LCD) or touch screens (therebycombining the screens/displays (12, 22, 32) and keys/controls (10, 20,30) into a single element).

Also illustrated in FIG. 1 is a plurality of fixed keys 40 having adefined operation. The defined operation of each fixed key 40 isindependent of the functionality of the input device selected by theuser. The defined operation of the fixed keys are operations found ontraditional keyboards such as Esc, Alt, Ctrl, Shift, Caps Lock, Tab,Enter, Backspace, Delete, and Spacebar. Additionally, these fixed keyscan function in a manner identical to that of a right-mouse click, aleft-mouse click or scroll. In other embodiments of the invention, thefunction of the fixed keys 40 are defined by the user of the keyboard 1.Also illustrated in FIG. 1 is a cursor control 42 for controlling thelocation of the cursor used in numerous software applications or othergraphical user interface. The cursor control includes any form of aninsertable or removable cursor control or other joystick for use incontrolling the cursor location.

Although not depicted, the exemplary keyboard illustrated in FIG. 1includes a microprocessor for controlling the operation of the keyboard.The processor executes data processing and control operations to assignand implement domain-level values assigned to each of the programmableinput keys 30 and provides a visual indication of alternativedomain-level values associated with each functional made of operation ofthe displays 32. The assignment of domain-level values to theprogrammable input keys 30 is accomplished through key-pad definitionstructures and procedures executed by the processor according to theselected functional mode or modes of operation of the keyboard.

Also shown in FIG. 1 is a card insertion slot 44 for receiving data froma card having data stored thereon in an information-bearing medium. Theinformation-bearing medium can take a variety of forms, such as amagnetic-strip encoded card, a bar-coded card, a biometrically encodedcard or other form of information encoded on a card. FIG. 1 alsoillustrates a jack 46 for receiving such items as a hand-free head setor headphones. Although not illustrated, the present invention alsoincludes a microphone and/or speaker built into the universal keyboard1. Other data-entry sources and input/output hardware will be known tothose skilled in the art.

The items of the keyboard described previously such as thefunctional-mode controls 10, functional-mode screens 12, domain-levelcontrols 20, domain-level screens 22, the scrolling controls 26 a, 26 b,28 a, 28 b, programmable input keys 30 and the displays 32 are locatedwithin a single base unit having a housing which fits into a user's handand protects the internal components of the keyboard 1. However, alsocontemplated within the scope of the present invention is amulti-sectioned keyboard where some of the keyboard components arelocated apart from the other keyboard components. Additionally, althougheach of the functional-mode controls 10, domain-level controls 20 andprogrammable input keys 30 are shown as buttons activated by the fingersof the user, alternative means of activating these buttons, such as theuse of a stylus, is also contemplated by the present invention. Alsowithin the scope of the present invention would be the use oftouch-sensitive surfaces that are used in lieu of, or in addition to,the buttons and screens illustrated in the attached figures.

FIGS. 1-15 show the universal keyboard 1 as being a stand-alone inputdevice. However, the keyboard 1 can be incorporated into any device,such as a cellular telephone as shown in FIG. 16. In embodiments of theinvention, for example, the invention described herein may be used as anintegral part of another device such as an automobile, an airplane(e.g., arm rest, seat back or cockpit), a lap-top computer (replacingthe current QWERTY-style keyboard), PDA (personal digital assistant), acell phone (replacing the current standard key pad) or a householddevice such as a refrigerator or television set. The included figuresillustrating the keyboard as a stand-alone input device are merelyexemplary and do not constitute a limitation of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a top isometric view of the universal keyboard 1 as viewedfrom the top left-hand corner of the keyboard. All of the operationalfeatures of the keyboard 1 are identical to that described in connectionwith FIG. 1. FIG. 2 illustrates additional connections to the universalkeyboard located in the top of the keyboard 60 below the scrollingcontrols 26 a, 26 b, 28 a, 28 b and the cursor control 42.

Although shown to be located in the top of the keyboard, the location ofthese additional connections can be placed at any convenient location onthe keyboard. The additional connections include a slot 62 for aninsertable electronic circuit card wherein the slot is configured inaccordance with one of the standard designs used for insertableelectronic circuit cards such as any of the PCMCIA standard sizes, aport configured to interface with a telephone line that is part of apublic-switched telephone network (PSTN) 64, a USB port 66, aserial-port interface, a parallel-port interface, and/or an expansionslot configured to receive a memory card 68. FIG. 2 also illustrates aninfrared port 70, which enables the universal keyboard to wirelesslytransmit or receive data. Although not depicted in the exemplarykeyboard in FIG. 2, additional connections are incorporated into thekeyboard 1 including a jack for the connection of an additional unit foroperating the keyboard with two hands as shown in FIG. 15 as well asconnections for other electronic devices that the keyboard 1 is sendingor receiving information to or from.

A person of skill in the relevant art would recognize that otherexpansion capabilities could be incorporated into the keyboard otherthan those listed and that the aforestated list of additionalconnections to the universal keyboard is merely illustrative and notmeant to be limiting in any manner.

FIG. 3 is a bottom end view of the universal keyboard 1. FIG. 3illustrates the jack 46 and the card insertion slot 44 located in thebottom end 72 of the keyboard. The jack 46 and card insertion slot 44are as described in connection with FIG. 1. Also shown in FIG. 3 is theend view of some of the fixed keys 40.

FIG. 4 is a top end view of the universal keyboard 1. FIG. 4 illustratesadditional connections which are optionally included with the universalkeyboard. The additional connections are located in the top of thekeyboard 60 below the scrolling controls 26 a, 28 a, the cursor control42 and fixed buttons 40. Although shown to be located in the top of thekeyboard, the location of these additional connections can be placed atany convenient location on the keyboard. FIG. 4 illustrates an end viewof the a slot 62 for an insertable electronic circuit card, a portconfigured to interface with a telephone line that is part of apublic-switched telephone network (PSTN) 64, a USB port 66, a and anexpansion slot configured to receive a memory card 68. FIG. 4 alsoillustrates an infrared port 70, which enables the universal keyboard towirelessly transmit or receive data. Although not illustrated in FIG. 4,additional connections are incorporated into the universal keyboard 1.These additional connections include such items as a serial-portinterface and/or a parallel-port interface. As stated in connection withFIG. 2, a person of skill in the relevant art would recognize that otherconnections and expansion capabilities are incorporated into thekeyboard in alternate locations in addition to those described andillustrated and that the aforestated list of additional connections tothe universal keyboard is merely illustrative and not meant to belimiting in any manner.

FIG. 5 a is a top view of the keyboard 1 showing it operating in thealphanumeric functional mode with the domain-level values assigned toeach input key 30 in the “A-L” domain level. The domain-level valueassociated with each input key 30 is shown in the respective displays 32associated with each input key 30. For example, the left input key inthe top row is assigned a domain-level value corresponding to the letter“A” or “a”. The display 32 associated with the left input key 30 of thefirst row visually shows, by highlighting the letter “A”, that pressingthat input key will correspond to selecting the letter “A” on atraditional keyboard. The remaining programmable input keys 30correspond to the highlighted letter on the display 32 associated witheach programmable input key 30.

Located within each display 32 in FIG. 5 a are additional numbers and/orletters associated with each programmable input key 30. These additionalnumbers and/or letters represent alternative domain-level values, whichare associated with each programmable input key 30 depending upon thedomain level selected by the user. For example, when the “M-X” domainlevel is selected while the universal keyboard is operating in thealphanumeric functionality, the highlighted letters change to correspondto the domain-level values of the selected domain level. The selectionof the “M-X” domain level and the domain-level values associated witheach programmable input key 30 is illustrated in FIG. 5 b. Therefore,the programmable input key 30 located on the left side of the first rowcorresponds to the letter “A” in the “A-L” domain level; however, thesame programmable input key 30 corresponds to the letter “M” after the“M-X” domain level is selected by the keyboard user. As described inconnection with FIG. 5 a, the display 32 associated with eachprogrammable input key 30 in FIG. 5 b shows alternative domain-levelvalues associated with each programmable input key for a givenfunctionality or combination of functionalities.

By selecting the “Y-Z/0-9” domain level within the alphanumericfunctionality, as shown in FIG. 5 c, the domain-level values associatedwith each programmable input key again changes. Selection of the“Y-Z/0-9” domain level assigns a domain-level value to the leftprogrammable input key of the first row equivalent to the number “7” asillustrated in FIG. 5 c. Also shown in FIG. 5 c are displays 32 whichcontain alternative domain-level values for each programmable input key30 within each domain level within the alphanumeric functionality.

Shown in FIG. 5 d is selection of the “PUNCT” domain level within thealphanumeric functionality. Selection of the PUNCT domain level assignsdifferent domain-level values to each of the programmable input keyscorresponding with a variety of punctuation marks which can be from anylanguage, although English-language punctuation marks are illustrated.The last row of programmable input keys 30 shown in FIG. 5 d do not havea domain-level values assigned to them. This allows a user to definetheir own domain level value to be associated with the previouslyundefined programmable input keys.

FIG. 5 e is a top view of the keyboard operating in alphanumericfunctionality showing the programmable input key assignments in the“SYN” domain level. This domain level, within the alphanumericfunctionality, is reached by actuating the domain-scrolling control 28a. For example, the first four possible domain levels within thealphanumeric functionality are illustrated in FIGS. 5 a-d. The next fourdomain levels for the alphanumeric functionality are displayed byactuating the domain-scrolling control 28 a. Although illustrated asscrolling through four domain levels, any number of domain levels can bescrolled through. The next four possible domain levels in the exampleshown in FIG. 5 are “SYM” and “WORDS” and two undefined domain levels,“LEV 7” and “LEV 8” which are defined by the user of the universalkeyboard. Indeed, additional domain levels beyond eight illustrated inFIGS. 5 a-e are also user or application-provider defined within aselected keyboard functionality. Although shown to change all fourdomain levels associated with the domain-level controls 20, pressing adomain-scrolling controls 28 a or 28 b can change any number of thedomain levels available for selection by the keyboard user.

The displays 32 associated with each programmable input key 30 in FIG. 5e highlight the command or function associated with the currentdomain-level value as well as alternative domain-level values. Thealternate domain level values shown in the displays 32 in FIG. 5 e canbe accessed by using the domain scrolling controls 28 a and 28 b.

Shown in FIG. 5 f is a top view of the universal keyboard operating in a“WORDS” domain level within the alphanumeric functionality. Selection ofa “WORDS” domain level assigns different domain-level values to each ofthe programmable input keys 30 corresponding with a variety ofEnglish-language words. Additionally, acronyms, non-English languagewords, phrases, or an entire document are similarly assigned adomain-level value.

As illustrated and described in connection with FIG. 1, FIGS. 5 a-e andFIG. 6 also show functional-mode controls 10, functional-mode screens12, domain-level controls 20, domain-level screens 22, programmableinput keys 30, displays 32, functionality scrolling controls 26 a and 26b, domain scrolling controls 28 a and 28 b, fixed keys 40 and a cursorcontrol 42.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the universal keyboard showing additionalkeyboard functionalities. Upon actuating the functionality-scrollingcontrol 26 a, the available functionalities of the keyboard are scrolledto display four previously undisplayed functionalities choices. Asdescribed in connection with FIGS. 5 a-e, selection of a functionalitywill then allow the keyboard user to select the desired domain levelwithin a particular functionality. As shown in FIG. 6, because nokeyboard functionality has been selected, there are no domain levels tobe selected by the user. Therefore, the domain controls have beengenerically labeled as “LEV 1”, “LEV 2”, “LEV 3” and “LEV 4” to indicatefour different domain levels.

FIG. 7 is a top isometric view of an alternative embodiment of theuniversal keyboard 100 as viewed from the bottom right-hand corner ofthe keyboard. The operation of the universal keyboard 100 shown in FIG.7 is similar to that described in connection with FIGS. 1 thru 6. Thekeyboard in FIG. 7 has several functionalities with each functionalityhaving one or more domain levels selected by the user.

FIG. 7 illustrates a plurality of functional-mode screens 110 forindicating and selecting the functional mode of operation of thekeyboard 100. The functional-mode screen 110 indicates which functionalmode is currently activated.

Located on the keyboard 100 is a set of functionality-scrolling controls112 a and 112 b for selecting the desired mode of device functionality.Actuating functionality scrolling control 112 a the list of keyboardfunctionalities will scroll such that alternative functionalities aredisplayed on the functional-mode screens 110 for selection by the user.

Also located on the keyboard 100 in FIG. 7 is a set of domain scrollingcontrols 114 a and 114 b for selecting the desired domain level within aselected functionality. In a manner similar to that described inconjunction with FIGS. 1-6, by actuating the domain scrolling controls114 a and 114 b, the keyboard user scrolls through the various domainlevels within a functionality.

Located on the keyboard 100 is a plurality of programmable input keys120 comprising a keypad for transmitting the commands associated witheach domain-level value associated with a particular programmable inputkey 120. Associated with each programmable input key 120 is a display122. The displays provide a visual indication of the currentdomain-level value associated with each programmable input key 120 aswell as alternative domain-level values available within a selectedfunctionality.

Also illustrated in FIG. 7 is a plurality of fixed keys 130 having adefined operation. The defined operation of each fixed key 130 isindependent of the functionality of the input device selected by theuser. The defined operation of the fixed keys are operations which arefound on traditional keyboards such as Esc, Alt, Ctrl, Shift, Caps Lock,Tab, Enter, Backspace, Delete, and Spacebar. Additionally, these fixedkeys can also function in a manner identical to that of a right-mouseclick, a left-mouse click or scroll. Also illustrated in FIG. 7 is acursor control 132 for controlling the location of the cursor.

FIG. 8 is a top isometric view of the universal keyboard 100 as viewedfrom the fop left-hand corner of the keyboard. All of the operationalfeatures of the keyboard 100 are identical to that described inconnection with FIGS. 1-7. FIG. 8 illustrates additional connectionswhich are incorporated into the universal keyboard. As shown in FIG. 8,the additional connections are located in the top of the keyboard 140below the functional-mode screens 110 and the functionality-scrollingcontrols 112 a and 112 b. Although shown to be located in the top of thekeyboard, the location of these additional connections can be placed atany convenient location on the keyboard. The additional connections mayinclude an infrared port 142, which enables the universal keyboard towirelessly transmit or receive data, as well as a USB port 144.Additional features added to the keyboard 100 in FIGS. 8-11 include aslot for an insertable electronic circuit card wherein the slot isconfigured in accordance with one of the standard designs used forinsertable electronic circuit cards, such as the PCMCIA standard, a portconfigured to interface with a telephone line that is part of apublic-switched telephone network (PSTN), a serial-port interface, aparallel-port interface, and/or an expansion slot configured to receivea memory card. A person of skill in the relevant art would recognizethat other expansion capabilities could be incorporated into thekeyboard in alternate locations in addition to those described andillustrated and that the aforestated list of additional connections tothe universal keyboard is merely illustrative and not meant to belimiting in any manner.

FIG. 9 is a bottom-end view of the embodiment of the keyboard 100 shownin FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 9 illustrates several fixed keys 130,functional-mode screens 110, a cursor control 132 and a domain scrollingcontrol 114 b.

FIG. 10 is a top-end view of the embodiment of the keyboard 100 shown inFIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 10 is a top end view of the universal keyboard 100.FIG. 10 illustrates additional connections to the universal keyboardlocated in the top of the keyboard 140 below the functional-mode screens110 and the functionality-scrolling controls 112 a and 112 b. Althoughshown to be located in the top of the keyboard, the location of theseadditional connections are placed at any convenient location on thekeyboard. FIG. 10 illustrates an infrared port 142, which enables theuniversal keyboard to wirelessly transmit or receive data, as well as aUSB port 144.

Although not illustrated in FIG. 10, additional connections areincorporated into the universal keyboard 1 such as a serial-portinterface, a parallel-port interface, a slot for an insertableelectronic circuit card, a port configured to interface with a telephoneline that is part of a public-switched telephone network (PSTN), and anexpansion slot configured to receive a memory card. As stated inconnection with FIG. 8, a person of skill in the relevant art wouldrecognize that other connections and expansion capabilities areincorporated into the keyboard in alternate locations in addition tothose described and illustrated and that the aforestated list ofadditional connections to the universal keyboard is merely illustrativeand not meant to be limiting in any manner. Optionally, the keyboardillustrated in FIG. 10 may also contain fewer additional connections orexpansion capabilities.

FIG. 11 is a top view of the keyboard 100 showing the keyboard operatingin the “EDIT” functionality and the domain level associated with theedit operations illustrated in FIG. 11. With the “EDIT” highlighted inthe functional-mode screens 110, the keyboard user has a visualindication of the keyboard's current functionality. Differentfunctionalities for the keyboard 100 are scrolled through for selectionby pressing the functionality-scrolling controls 112 a and 112 b. Alsoillustrated in FIG. 11 are a set of domain scrolling controls 114 a and114 b for selecting the desired domain level Within a selectedfunctionality.

FIG. 11 illustrates a plurality of programmable input keys 120 forentering data. Each programmable input key 120 has an assigneddomain-level value depending upon the domain level selected by the user.Associated with each programmable input key 120 is a display 122. Eachdisplay 122 provides a visual indication of the domain-level valueassociated with each programmable input key 120 within the selecteddomain. Also shown in FIG. 11 is a plurality of fixed keys 130 having adefined operation. The defined operation of each fixed key 130 isindependent of the functionality of the input device selected by theuser. The defined operation of the fixed keys are operations which arefound on traditional computer keyboards and on a computer mouse. Alsoillustrated in FIG. 11 is a cursor control 132 for controlling thelocation of the cursor.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a wireless connection 200 betweena computer 210 connected to a PSTN 220 and the universal keyboard 230.The wireless connection 200 between the universal keyboard and thecomputer, represented by a dashed line in FIG. 12, allows thealphanumeric characters associated with each programmable input key,when operating in the alphanumeric functionality, to be displayed byvirtue of a display 240 or monitor connected to the computer 210. Also,information transmitted to the computer 210 from a telephoneheadset/handset 250 can be transmitted via the computer 210 to theuniversal keyboard 230. Additionally, data transmitted between theuniversal keyboard to the computer is then be transmitted via the PSTNto any desired location.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a wire connection 300 between acomputer 310 and the universal keyboard 320 which is connected to a PSTN330. The PSTN port located in the universal keyboard allows data to betransmitted via the PSTN 330 from the universal keyboard without passingthrough the computer. However, the wire connection between the universalkeyboard and the computer allows a visuals representation of theprogrammable input keys to be seen by the keyboard user on the display340. Also, information transmitted to the computer 310, for example froma telephone headset/handset 350, can be transmitted via the computer 310to the universal keyboard 320 by virtue of the connection 300.Additionally, data can be sent from the universal keyboard 320 directlyto other devices or through the computer 310.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing the universal keyboard 400connected to a variety of devices through an input/output port bar 410.The output of the universal keyboard 400 can be transmitted to the portbar 410 through either a wire connection 420 or through a wirelesstransmission 430. The signal generated by the universal keyboard 400 isthen transmitted to a number of devices such as a computer 440, adisplay 450, a PDA (personal digital assistant) 460 or transmitted to aremote location via the PSTN 470. Additionally, a signal received by theinput/output port bar 410 from a remote location can then be transmittedto the universal keyboard. Also, any signal transmitted to theinput/output port bar 410, for example from a telephone headset/handset480, can be transmitted to the universal keyboard 400 by virtue of thewire connection 420 or wireless connection 430.

FIG. 15 is a top isometric view of the universal keyboard 1 illustratingthe use of an additional unit 500 for two-handed operation of thekeyboard. The presence of the additional unit 500 with the keyboard 1allows the user to operate the keyboard with two hands to speed theentry of data. FIG. 15 shows the keyboard 1 operating in thealphanumeric functionality and the “A-L” domain level. The domain levelhas been selected by use of the additional unit 500; however, the domainlevel is also selected by pressing the equivalent button 505 on thekeyboard 1. Although, the additional unit 500 is shown displaying thesame domain level as shown on the keyboard 1, domain levels in additionto those shown on the keyboard could be displayed for selection by theuser on the additional unit 500. Also, the additional unit 500 coulddisplay functionalities in addition to those shown on the keyboard 1 inFIG. 15.

In FIG. 15, the additional unit 500 is shown as a separate unit with awire connection back to the keyboard 1; however, this connection canalso be wireless. The additional unit 500 also takes the form of aswiveling or pivoting unit such that the domain-level controls 20 can bereoriented relative to the keyboard 1 while maintaining their physicalconnection to the keyboard 1. Also, the additional unit 500 can be anintegral part of a single unit with the keyboard 1, such as use inconnection with another device such as an automobile, an airplane (e.g.,arm rest, seat back or cockpit), a lap-top computer (replacing thecurrent QWERTY-style keyboard), PDA (personal digital assistant), a cellphone (replacing the current standard key pad) or a household devicesuch as a refrigerator or television set.

It will be noted by those persons of ordinary skill in the art that thevarious components that comprise the universal keyboard embodimentsdescribed herein such as the functional-mode controls 10,functional-mode screens 12, domain-level controls 20, domain-levelscreens 22, the scrolling controls 26 a, 26 b, 28 a, 28 b, programmableinput keys 30, the displays 32, jack 46, card reader 44, the slot for aninsertable electronic card 62, PSTN port 64, USB port 66, serial orparallel-port interfaces, expansion slot for receiving a memory card 68or an infrared port 70 as well as any software or microprocessors neededfor the keyboard may each be implemented using any one of several knownoff-the-shelf components.

Additionally, various companies can be utilized to outsource thefabrication and assembly of components for consumer electronics. Thesecompanies include Solectron of Milpitas, Calif. and Flextronics ofSingapore. Additionally, other companies can be engaged to assist in themanufacture and design of the microelectronics required for theuniversal keyboard. Companies such as Solectron and Flextronics'can beutilized to assist in the selection of components, chip design, materialselection, software development and manufacturing.

All references, including publications, patent applications, andpatents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the sameextent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicatedto be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entiretyherein.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in thecontext of describing the invention (especially in the context of thefollowing claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and theplural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted bycontext. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing”are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, butnot limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. All methods described hereincan be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated hereinor otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and allexamples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, isintended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose alimitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. Nolanguage in the specification should be construed as indicating anynon-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, includingthe best mode known to the inventor for carrying out the invention.Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. Theinventor expects skilled artisans to employ such variations asappropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practicedotherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, thisinvention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subjectmatter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicablelaw. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in allpossible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unlessotherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly, contradicted bycontext. Accordingly, the invention should only be limited by theappended claims and equivalents thereof, which claims are intended tocover such other variations and modifications as come within the spiritand scope of the invention.

1-64. (canceled)
 65. A multifunctional device comprising, within anintegrated structure: a wireless signal interface; and a user inputinterface facilitating activating a functional mode from multiplefunctional modes supported by the multifunctional device, whereinactivating the functional mode provides visual displays of, and accesskeys for, sets of input values associated with the activated functionalmode, the sets of input values being segmented into multiple domainlevels, the user input interface comprising three simultaneouslypresented, separate and distinct, key sets comprising: a set of functionselect keys, comprising at least two keys, for activating the functionalmode from the multiple functional modes supported by the multifunctionaldevice, the set of function select keys having associated displays foridentifying the multiple functional modes, a set of domain control keysfor selecting one of multiple domain levels associated with a currentlyselected one of the multiple functional modes, wherein each of themultiple domain levels is associated with a set of input key values, theset of domain control keys having associated displays for identifyingthe multiple domain levels, and a set of input keys, wherein ones of theset of input keys are associated with corresponding ones of the set ofinput key values for a currently selected one of the multiple domainlevels, a corresponding one of the input key values being registered bythe multifunctional device in response to user actuation of one of theset of input keys.
 66. The multifunctional device of claim 65, whereinthe wireless communication device executes an application, and the setof functional modes comprises an application-specific mode, and whereinthe signal registered by the wireless communication device in responseto actuation of one of the set of input keys is a command for theapplication.
 67. The multifunctional device of claim 65 wherein thewireless communication device supports text entry via the set of inputkeys and further comprises a set of text entry values corresponding to acomplete alphabet set and text-entry keyboard function keys, and whereinthe set of text entry values is segmented into multiple domain levels,selected via the domain control keys.
 68. The multifunctional device ofclaim 65 wherein the wireless communication device supports numericalvalue entry and further comprises: a set of numerical values assigned toones of the set of input keys, and wherein the numerical values areassigned to a domain level differing from at least one of the multipledomain levels to which the set of text entry values are assigned. 69.The multifunctional device of claim 65 wherein the function and domainselect keys are disposed adjacent to the set of input keys on agenerally planar surface of the device.
 70. The multifunctional deviceof claim 65 wherein separate displays are associated with at least twoof the sets of keys consisting of: the set of domain control keys, theset of input keys, and the set of function select keys.
 71. Themultifunctional device of claim 65 wherein input key values arepresented via modifiable visual display elements disposed proximatecorresponding ones of the set of input keys.
 72. The multifunctionaldevice of claim 65 wherein domain control key values are presented viamodifiable visual display elements disposed proximate corresponding onesof the set of domain control keys.
 73. The multifunctional device ofclaim 65 wherein function select key values are presented via modifiablevisual display elements disposed proximate corresponding ones of the setof function select keys.
 74. The multifunctional device of claim 65wherein the visual display elements comprise liquid crystal displays.75. The multifunctional device of claim 65 wherein the visual displayelements comprise organic light-emitting diode displays.
 76. Themultifunctional device of claim 65 wherein the modifiable visual displayelements and the key sets utilize touchscreen display technology. 77.The multifunctional device of claim 78 wherein the visual displayassociated with a key and the key are combined into a single element.78. The multifunctional device of claim 65 wherein the values associatedwith the input keys, the segmentation of input key values among domaincontrols and the visual indicator values displayed in association withthe input keys are determined by an application developer for anapplication activated by a function select key.
 79. The multifunctionaldevice of claim 65 wherein the values associated with the input keys,the segmentation of input key values among domain controls and thevisual indicator values displayed in association with the input keys aredetermined by a user.
 80. A multifunctional device including anintegrated interface, the interface including: a set of input valuescorresponding to a set of input values for a single functional modeactivated by a selection among a set of function select keys, whereinthe set of input entry values is segmented into multiple domain levels,each such set of segmented input values having a segment identifiervisually displayed in association with a domain level for activating theset of segmented input values, and none of the multiple domain levelscontaining a complete set of input values corresponding to thefunctional mode; an input key set, to which a set of segmented inputvalues are assigned, wherein a visual representation of the value ofeach input key is displayed proximate to each input key; a domaincontrol, including a user manipulated domain selection interface havinga set of domain select keys physically distinct from the input key set,for designating a current domain level from the multiple domain levelsand thereby selecting between the at least two segmented input valuesets associated with the individual input keys of the input key set; afunction select control with proximate visual displays containing visualidentifiers of functional modes, including a user manipulated functionselection interface having the set of function select keys physicallydistinct from the domain select keys and the input key set, foractivating a functional mode from the multiple functional modes of themultifunctional device and activating a set of domain select controlsfor selecting between the at least two segmented input value setsassociated with the individual input keys of the input key value setassociated with the activated functional mode; and the input key set,the domain select keys and the function select keys are simultaneouslypresented on the integrated user interface.
 81. The multifunctionaldevice of claim 80, wherein the wireless communication device executesan application, and the set of functional modes comprises anapplication-specific mode, and wherein the signal registered by thewireless communication device in response to actuation of one of the setof input keys is a command for the application.
 82. A multifunctionaldevice, comprising a dual component structure: a first physicalcomponent consisting of, within a first structural case, at least twowireless signal interfaces, a central processing unit, memory andoperating system; and a separate second physical user interfacecomponent consisting of, within a second structural case, a wirelesssignal interface for communicating with the first physical component,and a second processing unit, second memory and second operating system,and a user input interface facilitating activating a functional modefrom multiple functional modes supported by the operating system andsoftware applications resident on the first physical component, whereinactivating the functional mode provides visual displays of, and accesskeys for, sets of input values associated with the activated functionalmode, the sets of input values being segmented into multiple domainlevels, the user input interface comprising three simultaneouslypresented, separate and distinct, key sets comprising: a set of functionselect keys, comprising at least two keys for activating the functionalmode from the multiple functional modes supported by the multifunctionaldevice, the set of function select keys having associated displays foridentifying the multiple functional modes, a set of domain control keysfor selecting one of multiple domain levels associated with a currentlyselected one of the multiple functional modes, wherein each of themultiple domain levels is associated with a set of input key values, theset of domain control keys having associated displays for identifyingthe multiple domain levels, a set of input keys, wherein ones of the setof input keys are associated with corresponding ones of the set of inputkey values for a currently selected one of the multiple domain levels, acorresponding one of the input key values being registered by themultifunctional device in response to user actuation of one of the setof input keys.
 83. The multifunctional device of claim 82, wherein thewireless communication device executes an application, and the set offunctional modes comprises an application-specific mode, and wherein thesignal registered by the wireless communication device in response toactuation of one of the set of input keys is a command for theapplication.